Watergate Forest Park

Watergate Forest Park, which has nothing to do with Richard Nixon, is a 24 hectare park in the heart of Gateshead. It opened in 2000 on the site of Watergate Colliery following reclamation work in the 1990s.

The colliery was in use between 1924 and 1964, and the coal it produced was transported to Dunston Staiths by the Tanfield line of the LNER.

It is another one of Gateshead's huge parks, with plenty of paths and trails for walking and enjoying the scenery. We've visited a number of times and when we need to get our 10k steps in, we follow the red waymarked trail known as Watergate and Washingwell Wander. (You can download the map from the Gateshead Council website).

This walk takes in part of the wildlife trail around the lake, some of the surrounding fields and takes you through Washingwell Wood, probably my favourite part of the walk.

On the red route you'll also spot some of the steel sculptures around the site by Sunderland artist Jim Roberts, all inspired by the history and heritage of the area. Other sculptures can be seen around the park by artists including Graham Hopper, William Pym and Colin Rose, who have their work on display around the region.

The park became a 'Gateway to the Great North Forest' in 2000, when over 120,000 trees were planted in the park. This means that Watergate 'introduces people to the countryside in an accessible, safe and comprehensive environment'.

It is a great park with lots of wildlife and we've recently spotted Bullfinches, Blackcap, Heron and Long Tailed Tits amongst many others. When you've finished birdwatching, you can have a rest at Watergate Cafe near the football fields, close to the entrance.